The Placebo Effect: Decoding the Mind-Body Connection on Selected Female Participants in Sharjah

Abstract

Research on the validity of the placebo effect in clinical settings with medical professionals is well established; however, less is known about how its success rate varies and to what extent perceived relief is influenced when professionalism and expertise are eliminated, and trust in the provider becomes the primary factor. This study investigates the efficacy of the placebo effect when typical clinical conditions—namely provider expertise and status—are absent. Specifically, it examines the limitations of the placebo effect when inert and active medications are administered by non-medical individuals, such as peers, who are trusted to varying degrees by the participants. Both a quantitative and qualitative approach was used; the participants were categorized into low trust and high trust groups based on a scenario-based questionnaire. They later received either an active or placebo medication upon request and reported their perceived relief and feedback via a follow-up questionnaire. A dual-method approach, combining statistical testing (paired and independent t-tests) for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative responses, provided a comprehensive understanding of how trust influences the placebo effect in a non-medical experimental setting. Results indicated that participants with high trust in the provider exhibited greater positive responses to both real and placebo drugs, whereas those with low trust were more likely to report no improvement or adverse effects. These findings suggest that trust—whether in professional qualifications or social bonds—plays a key role in enhancing the placebo effect.